Job Description

About Us

Pumpkin Pie Childcare is a warm, nurturing early years setting dedicated to providing high-quality childcare and education for children aged from 3 months up to 10 years old. We believe in creating a safe, inspiring environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. We are looking for a detail-oriented and proactive Finance and Administration Officer to join our team and support the smooth running of our nursery operations.

Hours of work can be discussed and agreed, you will have a high degree of flexibility across the week to manage your working hours and workload. Ideally the contract will be for around 20 hours per week. The role can be hybrid so that some hours are worked from home.

Role Purpose

The Finance and Administration Officer will be responsible for managing the nursery's financial processes, maintaining accurate financial records, and supporting administrative functions to ensure efficient day-to-day operations. This role combines bookkeeping, payroll, and general administrative support.

Please be aware that given the nature of the role, you will need to meet our safeguarding criteria and hold a clear DBS check to work alongside children.

Key Responsibilities

Finance Duties

Maintain accurate financial records and ledgers using accounting software, e.g.QuickBooks. Process invoices, receipts, and payments in a timely manner. Reconcile bank statements and petty cash. Support the preparation of annual budgets and forecasts. Monitor income and expenditure to ensure alignment with budgets. Manage nursery fees - issue invoices to parents, track payments, and follow up on outstanding balances. Process staff payroll, pensions, and statutory deductions in compliance with HMRC requirements. Liaise with accountants and auditors as needed.

Administration Duties

Maintain staff records, including attendance, training, and HR documentation. Support recruitment and onboarding processes for new staff. Manage nursery correspondence (emails, letters, phone enquiries). Ensure all licences, insurance, and compliance documents are up to date. Support the Nursery Manager with policy reviews, regulatory documentation, and inspections (e.g., Ofsted). Order and manage supplies, ensuring good stock control and value for money. Assist with marketing and communication activities (e.g., newsletters, social media updates, parent communications).

Person Specification

Essential Skills and Experience

Proven experience in finance, accounting, or administrative roles. Strong understanding of bookkeeping and payroll processes. Proficiency with Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and accounting software. Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to handle confidential information with discretion. Ability to work independently and as part of a small, close-knit team.

Desirable

Knowledge of Ofsted and early years funding processes. AAT or similar accounting qualification (or working towards one).

What We Offer

Supportive and friendly working environment. Opportunities for training and professional development. Competitive salary and benefits. A rewarding role contributing to the care and education of young children.
Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: From 14.00 per hour

Expected hours: 16 - 25 per week

Benefits:

Childcare Company events Company pension Employee discount Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Northumberland NE65 9EF